Pay it forward: Bengals fans donate to Jags QB Bortles' charity

When the Cincinnati Bengals beat the Baltimore Ravens in Week 17, paving the way for the Buffalo Bills to reach the playoffs, thankful Bills fans showed their appreciation by donating to Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton's charitable foundation.

Now, Bengals fans are following suit by rewarding Jacksonville Jaguars QB Blake Bortles for defeating their division rival in the playoffs.

According to the Blake Bortles Foundation, more than 100 fans have donated close to $5,000 since the Jaguars beat the Pittsburgh Steelers 45-42 in the AFC divisional round on Sunday.

"Fans are at the core of the football experience and it's truly exciting and rewarding when they band together, regardless of the team they cheer for, to make a positive impact in the lives of others," Bortles said in a statement. "I greatly appreciate the support displayed by Bengals fans and they should know their support will make a difference."

The Blake Bortles Foundation attributed the wave of support to Cincinnati radio host Mo Egger of ESPN1530, who urged Bengals fans on air to pay it forward as a way to stick it to Steelers fans. Bills fans ended up donating more than $300,000 to Dalton's foundation, The Andy & Jordan Dalton Foundation, after Week 17.

Bortles threw for 214 yards and had a touchdown in the Jaguars' playoff win over the Steelers. His touchdown pass to fullback Tommy Bohanon with 4:19 remaining put Jacksonville up 42-28 at the time.